Rep Calls for Restoration of Key Features in Ogoni Section of Major Highway Project

…commend FG on recognition of Ogoni icons, progress on infrastructure

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By Gloria Ikibah

A member of the House of Representatives, representing Khana/Gokana in Rivers State, Rep. Dumnamene Deekor, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the Federal Ministry of Works implements the original blueprint of the East-West Road—especially in the stretch that traverses Ogoniland.

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Speaking with reporters at the National Assembly on Monday, the lawmaker welcomed the renewed focus on the long-overdue reconstruction of the highway. He described the administration’s attention to the project as timely and commendable.

However, Deekor expressed concern over apparent deviations from the approved plan, noting the possible omission of three strategic flyovers initially included to ease traffic flow through the region. He warned that bypassing these critical elements could undercut the road’s long-term utility and worsen congestion across the corridor.

He also lauded the recent posthumous honours accorded to fallen Ogoni heroes and the move toward establishing a university in the area, describing both as significant steps toward acknowledging the sacrifices and aspirations of the Ogoni people.

“The East-West Road is not just any road. It’s a strategic economic corridor that runs through the heart of Ogoniland and links to major hubs like the Ocean Terminal, Free Trade Zone, Notore Fertilizer Company, and hundreds of other businesses,” he said.
Deekor emphasised that the road, which connects seven local governments in Rivers State and extends to Akwa Ibom and Cross River, remains one of Nigeria’s busiest haulage routes after the Apapa axis in Lagos.
He explained that piling had already been completed at critical intersections—such as Onne Trailer Park, Refinery Junction, and Agbajo Junction (Eleme)—where flyovers were originally planned. Omitting these structures, he warned, would lead to severe gridlock and economic losses.
“It is baffling that a 15km stretch of such strategic importance is being segmented without full adherence to the original design. If the ministry proceeds with these alterations, Mr. President’s well-intended directive will be defeated,” he said.
Deekor also criticised recent remarks by the Minister of Works dismissing concerns raised by Ogoni stakeholders as “faceless.”
“I’m here with a face, and I speak on behalf of my people,” he asserted. “You cannot claim a road is completed and then return days later to lay asphalt. The facts speak for themselves.”
In addition to infrastructure concerns, the lawmaker commended President Tinubu for posthumously honouring Ogoni environmental activists, including Ken Saro-Wiwa and Ledum Mitee, during the June 12 Democracy Day celebrations.
He further hailed the President for signing the bill establishing the Federal University of Environment, describing it as a “catalyst for development in Ogoni and the Niger Delta.”
Deekor further appealed for the recognition of other Ogoni martyrs, such as the “Ogoni Four,” to deepen reconciliation and promote lasting peace in the region.
“If these remaining injustices are addressed, I strongly believe that the era of unrest in Ogoniland will become history,” he concluded.
He commended Tinubu for signing the Federal University of Environmental Technology Ogoni, Rivers bill into law saying that it will spark economic growth in the area.
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